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Begin the Christmas season with the ultimate feel good party!

Bhangra legend Malkit Singh will be live on stage at St George’s Bristol on 3 December, performing traditional and contemporary Bhangra tracks. Asian Arts Agency’s Aashi Gahlot introduces Malkit Singh and his legacy. Whether you are a hard-core Bhangra fan or have no idea what Bhangra is… do not miss this!

WHO IS MALKIT SINGH?

A pioneer of the UK Bhangra scene, Malkit Singh is the first Punjabi singer to be honoured with an MBE by the Queen. His track Tutak Tutak Toothiyan became the fastest selling Bhangra track of all time and he is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the biggest selling bhangra solo artist of all time.

In fact, this song is so iconic that a Bollywood version was released in 2016 for a film of the same name!

WHAT IS BHANGRA?

Originating in the Punjab, Bhangra is a traditional form of music that makes the most stubborn feet dance! In fact, it is impossible not to dance to Bhangra… Expressing songs of love, separation and celebration, Bhangra is essential to the South Asian music scene worldwide. Some of the main instruments used in Bhangra are a drum called the “dhol”, a single string “tumbi” and a short-necked fiddle, “sarangi”.

A ROLE MODEL

It is amazing to think how music connects different generations and cultures together. The British Asian music scene today is thriving as the second generation have made their mark in the music industry. This has been possible because of artists such as Malkit Singh who helped sow the seeds.

Malkit Singh was born in Hussainpur, India and moved to Birmingham, UK in 1984. In 2008, Malkit became the first Asian artist to be awarded an MBE for his services to music and in 2012 he was awarded a place on Birmingham’s ‘Walk of Stars’ in recognition of his global contribution to Bhangra music.

A STORY TELLER

Malkit Singh’s music is not only popular amongst the South Asian community, but also important. Amongst his popular party tracks are emotive songs describing the struggles of being home sick. These experiences are vital to acknowledge in an attempt to understand identity and belonging, as well as to celebrate a multi-cultural Britain, whose struggles have not always been voiced.

A TRUE TALENT

Malkit Singh shone his gift from an early age. He was a child of four when his singing talents won him a place at a school intended for six year olds. In later education years, his mentor Professor Inderjit Singh helped to focus his musical talents.

A VERSATILE ARTIST

Malkit Singh collaborated with Apache Indian, the earliest UK ragga artist of Asian origin to make an impact on the UK charts with hits during the 90’s.

FANS IN BOTH GENERATIONS

Malkit Singh appeals to the younger generation through his popular and upbeat tracks. In recent years Malkit Singh collaborated with award winning British Asian DJ and producer, Dj Vix.

Chal Hun and Jind Mahi by Malkit Singh are part of the soundtrack for popular British comedy, “Bend it like Beckham”. Malkit Singh’s contribution can be seen as helping to shape the Diaspora.

It is rare to see a legend perform live on stage. Do not miss the opportunity to dance along with the King of Bhangra, Malkit Singh. Whatever your age or background, this event will make you want to dance! And you will experience Bhangra music at its very best!